Australia launches nanotech R&D plan

Australian Academy of Science's National Nanotechnology Research Strategy has been launched to improve community health and environmental stewardship, aid national security and revitalize Australian manufacturing

Singapore: Senator Kate Lundy, the Australian minister assisting for industry and innovation, has launched Australian Academy of Science's National Nanotechnology Research Strategy. Prepared in consultation with Australia's leading nanotechnologists, the plan identifies opportunities to improve community health and environmental stewardship, aid national security and revitalize Australian manufacturing.

Australian nanotechnology applications currently in development include advanced medical bionics such as the bionic ear and eye and scaffolds for prosthetics among other fields. The academy acknowledged the financial support received from the Australian Government department of industry, innovation, science, research and tertiary education.

"Australia's nanotechnology sector has the potential to make an immediate impact in key areas of importance to the nation," said Professor Chennupati Jagadish, VP of the academy and secretary for physical sciences.

"The global nanotechnology product market is projected to be worth $3 trillion by 2020. This plan will enable Australia to take full economic advantage of this technological revolution. The National Nanotechnology Research Strategy will also ensure that nanoscience research can improve our quality of life. This is a plan to help solve the grand challenges Australia faces and improve our ability to participate effectively in the Asian Century," Prof Jagadish added.

"To realize our vision of a nanotechnology empowered economy, it is essential that multidisciplinary research in nanoscience and nanotechnology is supported through project funding, resourced networking and critical research infrastructure," Professor Jagadish said.